(Posted on Apr 12, 2019 at 12:00PM by Michelle Bogle)
If you’ve been considering an all-electric plug-in, but have concerns about drivability and range, allow us to quell your worries by taking a 2016 Nissan Leaf SL for a spin. This battery-powered hatchback offers great range with 107 miles, plus it boasts brisk acceleration and a quiet cabin for the most relaxing ride.
Hiding under the Leaf’s aerodynamic exterior is an 80-kW electric motor that makes 107 hp and 187 lb of torque. It generates its power from a 30 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that comes with a 6.6 kW onboard charger that can refresh a depleted cell in about five hours. Without needing a drop of gas to fuel the vehicle, the Leaf is incredibly snappy for an all-electric powertrain. In performance tests, it went from zero to 60 mph in just 10.2 seconds.
As the top-of-the-line trim, you won’t miss out on any features when you choose the SL. Sleek 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and foglights are on the exterior, as well as a solar panel on the rear spoiler to power your accessories. Inside the cabin, leather upholstery offers a high-end appeal, while heated seats ensure the comfort of all passengers. You’ll love the tech inclusions too, like the navigation system, Nissan Connect EV remote telematics and the 7-inch touchscreen with a six-speaker audio system and HD radio.
To test drive a used Leaf, contact Kirkland Nissan in Seattle, Washington.